Those who care about anti-discrimination laws in general, and the rights of LGBT individuals in particular, have much to be concerned about Monday's ruling by the Supreme Court in Burwell v. Hobby Lobby.

Last night, Senator Thad Cochran pulled off an upset of sorts, by defeating his Tea Party primary challenger in the rematch atmosphere of a "top two" runoff election. His chance of victory had been seen by many (at least before the election results began coming in) as increasingly unlikely -- which is why the political world is abuzz over what just happened down in the Magnolia State.

Within a few months, New Orleans-based Helis Oil & Gas Co. hopes to explore a deep part of the Tuscaloosa Marine Shale play by drilling down 13,000 feet near Mandeville, La. Other companies are fracking shallower parts of the TMS deposit to the northwest.

Not every speaker tells a crowd of young leaders that their job is to get into trouble. But that's part of the message iconic civil rights warrior and now Congressman John Lewis (D-GA) conveyed to students this week.

Fracking companies claim that drilling, when done properly, is no threat to drinking water. But in late 2011, the EPA said fluids used to drill for natural gas most likely polluted an aquifer near Pavillion, Wyoming.

Mississippi, a state that tends to be at the bottom of every index of states -- where bottom is not good -- has passed a misnamed Religious Freedom Restoration Act. Like most government legislation, the name has nothing to do with its actual intent.

Once you start this book you will not be able to put it aside. It may burn your fingers but it cannot be dropped. It is compelling reading that awes, repels and entertains all at the same time. It is the book we have been waiting for Iles to write. It has finally arrived and we are all the better for it.